March 27, 2017
Accessing and selecting the best routes for care for your aging family member(s) isn't an easy process. Paging through all the different services and facilities offers a myriad of options and terminology that may take some effort, and research to become familiar with. Specifically, deciphering between facilities that offer adult day care and facilities that offer adult day health care can be confusing. Since the titles of both care options are so similar, you may not be able to determine which option, if either, would be best for your unique situation.We're here to help you learn what each means, the differences between the two and which is the option that benefits you and your loved one the most. But What Do They Mean? Generally speaking, there are three options when choosing adult care for seniors, and since there are no strict rules for specific options/services a given facility decides to provide, there is sometimes some gray area between them. When you're examining different facilities, it's integral to fully assess and know the types and options of care your loved one needs.The three basic types of senior day care include the following: -Alzheimer's and dementia care facilities -Medical, therapy and socialization centers -Socialization and safety centers When a facility categorizes itself as providing adult day health care, it signifies that it offers at least some elements of the patient's health care. It's important to remember they aren't simply supervision and/or recreation centers for senior citizens. Specifically, facilities that are designated as adult day health care, or ADHC, indicates a facility that is licensed by the state they operate in to provide participants with medical and health care. Designation and Associated Offerings A main difference to be aware of is that in a myriad of states, if/when a facility isn't specifically certified for amenities such as social worker, psych evaluations and/or administration of medicine, it will be referred to as just an "adult day care", without the "health" in the title. Furthermore, centers that aren't licensed by the state they operate in have a greater chance of not being eligible for reimbursement through Medicaid. States typically have specific procedures for licensing and regulating ADHC facilities, and licensing is required for Medicaid and/or Medicare reimbursement approval -- Medicare won't cover costs associated with just day care program designations. In many states, if a center is not certified for things like providing psych evaluations, social workers, and/or medication administration, it will simply be referred to as an adult day care center. When a facility is not licensed by the state, there is a greater chance that costs of the day care program will not be eligible for reimbursement through Medicaid. Most states have an established licensing procedure for regulating ADHC operations. This process is required in order for the facility to be approved for Medicare and Medicaid. Making care decisions for loved ones can be tough process to traverse. Here at Schofield, our adult day health care program provides a plethora of care options, including physical, occupational and speech therapies, nursing services, personal care, case management, and leisure activities in a supportive group environment. Don't hesitate to call us if you're looking for a dedicated rehab facility in Buffalo, NY or a Nursing home company in WNY that cares about your loved ones' health and quality of life. Our experienced staff can help you navigate the process and ensure your loved one is receiving the care they need.